A colossal purple star sapphire, believed to be the largest of its kind in the world, has been unveiled in Sri Lanka. The gem, weighing 3,563 carats, is estimated to be worth between $300 million and $400 million (£224 million to £298 million).
Named the 'Star of Pure Land', the round-shaped stone was revealed in Colombo by its owners, a group who have chosen to remain anonymous for security reasons. Leading gemologist Ashan Amarasinghe confirmed it is the world's largest documented natural purple star sapphire, noting its 'well-defined asterism' with six rays.
According to one of the owners, the sapphire was discovered in 2023 in a gem pit near Rathnapura, Sri Lanka's renowned 'city of gems'. It was originally purchased alongside other stones, with its true value only realised later. The gem has been certified by two laboratories.
Star sapphires are prized for the star-like pattern that appears under light, and purple examples are exceptionally rare. Sri Lanka is famous for its sapphires, and Rathnapura is at the heart of the country's gem-mining heritage.
The unveiling has generated significant interest among global collectors and investors, potentially leading to one of the most expensive gemstone sales in history. This discovery follows a trend of record-breaking gemstones, including the recent sale of 'The Regent Kashmir' blue sapphire for $9.5 million at Christie's Hong Kong.
